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CREPE EXPECTATIONS

By Tina Barry
The Brooklyn Paper
The Brooklyn Papers / Aaron Greenhood

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When the renowned Bay Ridge patisserie and bistro, Provence en Boite, closed in 2004, you thought you’d lost your chance to sample the chocolate tarts and crepes. "Pas aussi mon cher." After a much-needed rest, the Gallic husband-and-wife team of Leslie and chef Jean-Jacques Bernat re-established their boite on Smith Street.

"It is fen-tes-teek!" says Jean-Jacques (left) of the reception they’ve received since their June 15 opening.

Their new spot, in the old Baluchi’s space, channels the same sunny Provencal mood as their former cafe. The walls of the 46-seat space are painted a golden hue, patterned cloths cover the tables, Jean-Jacques’s collection of vintage tin boxes are stacked on wooden shelving, and most important, a big glass display case loaded with flaky croissants, glistening fruit tarts and decadent chocolate cookies greets sugar-crazed patrons at the door.

The Bernats offer an all-French wine list and beer "only from the Brooklyn Brewery," says Jean-Jacques, to accompany the "crepes, rabbit, lamb, duck, steak frites and fresh foie gras terrine."

After a long day of welcoming new diners and overseeing the kitchen, the Bernats have a short walk home.

"We live a block away," says Jean-Jacques. "It is right that we are here." Oui!

Provence en Boite (263 Smith St. at DeGraw Street in Carroll Gardens) accepts American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Entrees: $14-$19. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays. For reservations, call (718) 797-0707.

©2006 Community Newspaper Group

→Bridge ‘Park’: Shillary!

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